More than 2,000 industry professionals gathered in New Orleans for the opening of BUILD26, the Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industry’s annual convention. On March 17, the association's Michael Stark set the tone with a message centered on connection, growth and industry responsibility.  

On March 17, taking the stage following the event’s opening program, Stark welcomed attendees from across the United States and international markets, noting the significance of both the turnout and the continued expansion of the convention.

“This is what it’s about—the connections, the network, the interaction,” Stark said. “We have people who have been coming for decades, and we have first-time attendees. That mix is what makes this event so valuable.”

BUILD26 featured a sold-out education program, reflecting increased engagement across the wall and ceiling industry. Stark emphasized that participation continues to grow not only in attendance but also in involvement across events, education and networking opportunities.

The convention expo featured approximately 145 exhibitors showcasing products, services and innovations. Stark encouraged attendees to spend time on the show floor, regardless of their immediate business needs.

“You will learn something that can help your business, your employees or your operations,” he said. “These companies are here to support the industry and the association.”

In his remarks, Stark highlighted AWCI’s ongoing investment in education and workforce development, including expanded digital learning platforms that allow members to access training in both English and Spanish. The association recently launched new programs aimed at improving accessibility and flexibility for contractors and their teams.

“If we’re not educating and advancing our workforce, we’re not doing our job as an association,” Stark said.

He also pointed to increased collaboration across the industry, including partnerships with other organizations to develop technical resources, safety tools and best practices. Among those efforts are new technical councils and safety initiatives designed to improve jobsite performance and knowledge sharing.

At this year’s AWCI Awards Ceremony, Scott Casabona, president and CEO of Sloan & Co. in Mountain Lakes, N.J., was honored with the Pinnacle Award. The AWCI Pinnacle Award is given to an individual who most merits the industry's highest recognition. The recipient of this award has given time and energy unselfishly for the benefit of AWCI and the industry, and exhibits family dedication and commitment to community.

Stark reminded attendees of the organization’s broader mission.

“It’s hard to capture everything an organization like this does,” he said. “But it comes down to this—we’re here to support each other and move the industry forward.”

New Orleans didn't waste any time making an impression. Day 1 of BUILD26 hit the ground running with a full slate of board meetings and sessions covering everything from steel framing to talent retention—serious industry business set against one of America's most spirited backdrops.

First-timers and emerging leaders received a warm official welcome, a reminder that this industry's next chapter is very much in the room. The day closed on a high note. The HILTI-sponsored President's Welcome Reception turned up the volume with a full Mardi Gras theme: signature cocktails, local bites and live NOLA music that made it clear this wasn't just another industry mixer. It was a proper New Orleans welcome.  

Energy remained high on Day 2 of BUILD26 as more than 2,000 wall and ceiling industry professionals continued gathering in New Orleans for AWCI’s annual convention. The day was marked by recognition, reflection and a strong focus on the industry’s future.

The trade show floor added to the momentum, featuring approximately 145 exhibitors showcasing the latest products, services and innovations. The space also hosted live conversations at the Walls & Ceilings “If Walls Could Talk” podcast booth, where industry leaders shared insights and perspectives, creating another hub for connection.